Imaging system for a vertebral level

Abstract

The present invention relates to an imaging system (10) for a vertebral level, an identification method for a vertebral level, a computer program element for controlling such system and a computer readable medium having stored such computer program element. The imaging system (10) comprises a determination unit (11), a definition unit (12), an imaging unit (13), and a processing unit (14). The determination unit (11) determines a target vertebral level. The definition unit (12) defines an anatomical landmark of a spine. The imaging unit (13) provides a series of X-ray images along the spine based on the landmark. The processing unit (14) identifies the target vertebral level in at least one of the X-ray images. The processing unit (14) further stitches the X-ray images to a continuous panoramic image of the spine and identifies the target vertebral level in the panoramic image.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is the U.S. National Phase application under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International Application No. PCT / EP2015 / 062150, filed on Jun. 1, 2015, which claims the benefit of European Patent Application No. 14171512.8, filed on Jun. 6, 2014. These applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to an imaging system for a vertebral level, an identification method for a vertebral level, a computer program element for controlling such system and a computer readable medium having stored such computer program element.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]In minimally invasive spine interventions, it is very important to localize the correct vertebral level for treatment. The interventions are usually performed under X-ray guidance, with the X-ray system offering only a limited field-of-view. However, only few vertebral levels can reliably be identified from their shape or the su...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This system enables easy and reliable identification of the target vertebral level, reducing the risk of misidentification and allowing for lower X-ray doses, while being compatible with existing imaging systems without the need for C-arm or table motion tracking.

Problems solved by technology

However, only few vertebral levels can reliably be identified from their shape or the surrounding anatomy in such assembled image.

As a result, the process is complicated and error-prone.

Using a contemporary digital X-ray examination apparatus, it is difficult or even impossible to form an X-ray image of the complete region of the spinal column of the patient to be examined in one exposure.

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